I tested a solid-state power bank that's seriously durable, but two things hold me back
Source: ZDNet
ZDNET’s key takeaways
- Contains a solid‑state battery that’s safer, lasts longer, and performs better in cold weather.
- Has a Qi2 wireless‑charging pad and two USB‑C ports.
- It’s heavier and pricier than many other power banks.
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I’ve fallen in love with BMX power banks powered by solid‑state batteries. These banks replace the older lithium‑ion cells that contain flammable liquid electrolyte with a solid‑state chemistry that is far safer (I once drove a screwdriver through a fully‑charged one and nothing happened).
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The BMX SolidSafe 10K is the larger—and, in my opinion, better—brother of the SolidSafe 5K.
Why I like solid‑state batteries
- Safety – Rupturing a fully charged pack only produces a whiff of smoke; there’s no fire or plume.
- Longevity – Standard lithium‑ion cells survive ~500 charge cycles, whereas solid‑state cells comfortably exceed 1,000 cycles before capacity drops to end‑of‑life.
- Cold‑weather performance – They charge and discharge efficiently at low temperatures, eliminating the need to warm a traditional power bank before charging.
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Adrian Kingsley‑Hughes / ZDNET
The BMX SolidSafe 10K is a 10,000 mAh / 38 Wh portable power bank measuring 4.0 × 2.7 × 0.6 in and weighing 7.4 oz. The extra heft comes from its anodized‑aluminum and polymer shell, which also gives it a premium feel.
Key features
- Qi2 wireless‑charging pad – up to 15 W output for compatible phones.
- Strong magnetic attachment – stays put even with a thick phone case.
- Dual USB‑C ports – each supports up to 30 W output and 27 W input (the 5K model only had one port).
- Pass‑through charging – you can charge the bank while it powers two devices simultaneously.
- On/off button & color display – clear readout of battery level and charge/discharge rates.
- Integrated lanyard – a short USB‑C‑to‑USB‑C cable that doubles as a handy tether.
Adrian Kingsley‑Hughes / ZDNET
The dual‑port setup is a travel boon: plug a small single‑port charger into the wall, then use the power bank to charge both the charger (via pass‑through) and two devices (wirelessly and via USB‑C) at the same time.
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The retaining clip that holds the lanyard cable in place is surprisingly robust; it has survived repeated fidgeting without breaking or loosening.
Adrian Kingsley‑Hughes / ZDNET
Overall, the BMX SolidSafe 10K delivers the safety and durability of solid‑state chemistry in a well‑designed, magnetic power bank that’s ready for rugged, on‑the‑go use.
ZDNET Buying Advice
The power banks are available in four finishes—black, blue, orange, and silver—and can be purchased for $79.99 (a $20 discount off the regular price).
Why the BMX SolidSafe 10K Stands Out
- Price: Slightly higher than many competing MagSafe power banks, but the extra cost brings several premium features.
- Dual USB‑C Outputs: A rare capability that lets you charge two devices simultaneously at high speed.
- Solid‑State Battery:
- Safer operation
- Longer lifespan
- Better performance in cold weather
Overall, the BMX SolidSafe 10K is a sturdy, reliable power bank that delivers on its promises.
Product link: BMX SolidSafe 10K
For comparison, other popular MagSafe power banks include:
- Baseus 10,000 mAh Portable Charger
- UGREEN Certified Wireless Magnetic Charger
- Anker Magnetic Foldable Wireless Portable Charger
- INIU Magnetic Portable Charger
- UGREEN 10,000 mAh Magnetic Wireless Charger
(Links to these alternatives have been omitted for clarity.)